Department Description
The Survey Researcher 3 is a leadership role overseeing the simultaneous execution of 3-10 clinical trials and community research studies in the Smilowitz Lab. These studies include double blind, randomized, placebo, controlled-trials, crossover and parallel trials, observational trials, case-cohort trials, longitudinal and cross-sectional trials and community-based participatory research. Supervises and trains Smilowitz lab members from staff, academics and graduate students on all lab procedures and study activities such as recruitment, HIPAA and IRB-compliant procedures in consenting and enrolling participants on clinical trial visits, sample pick-ups and study content creation, data entry management using quality assurance and quality control methods, sample management, and good record keeping per university, HIPAA, and IRB regulatory requirements. Manages databases containing sensitive clinical trial and analytical-generated data. Drafts final scientific and grant reports; creates and gives presentations to stakeholders; conducts trainings, workshops; finalizes the design of and produces promotional materials (flyers, scientific newsletters, and invitation letters), conducts outreach, education, promotion and marketing of clinical studies to physicians, nurses, office and hospital staff (i.e., health care professionals) and potential participants. Manages all aspects of the Smilowitz Lab including the maintenance of sample supply inventory; conduct lab safety training and safety record keeping, manage and oversee the maintenance of instruments in the Smilowitz lab. Manages personnel in preparing biological samples for their laboratory analyses. Leads regular meetings and presents data to the team. Authors standard operating procedures and protocols for all laboratory related activities including sample preparation and analysis. Leads team meetings. Creates, manages and balances budgets, drafts, review internal reports, and publishable scientific manuscripts. Apply By Date 09/18/2025 by 11:59 pm Qualifications Minimum Qualifications - For full consideration, applicants are encouraged to upload license and/or certification if required of the position
- Required to hold a valid California driver's license, have a driving record that is in accordance with local policies/procedures, and/or enroll in the California Employer Pull Notice Program
- Bachelor's of Science in nutrition, biological, biomedical or health sciences field.
- At least 4-6 years' experience leading and managing dietary intervention, randomized controlled trials, and community health/nutrition studies: includes participant recruitment, enrollment and retention; use of online software such as Redcap or Qualtrics to design and collect health history, nutritional intake questionnaires; development and use of quality assurance and quality control measures to collect data and manage data; IRB protocol design, submission, modification, and adherence to compliance requirements, and clinical trial management software and programs (IRB.net, Clinicaltrials.gov).
- Advanced knowledge in IRB processes, GCP (Good Clinical Practice), informed consent
- Ability to oversee multiple studies simultaneously, manage timelines, track milestones, and coordinate team efforts across clinical and lab workflows
- Strong written and verbal communication skills to liaise with investigators, participants, regulatory bodies, and cross-disciplinary teams
- Skills in accurate data collection, entry, storage, and quality control using platforms like Redcap, EHRs, or LIMS.
Preferred Qualifications
- At least 4-6 years' experience managing a laboratory including overseeing daily operations, personnel, and research compliance including sample management and inventory; processing samples (e.g., blood, urine, saliva and milk) for sample analysis; developing quality assurance and quality control protocol ensuring efficient, safe, and productive scientific workflows.
Key Responsibilities
- 70% - Clinical Trial Training, Supervision and Execution
- 30% - Laboratory Activities
Department Overview The Smilowitz Lab conducts interdisciplinary clinical and community-based participatory research on the impact of diet on the gut microbiome during the first 1000 days from pregnancy to a child's second birthday. These studies are coordinated and managed by the role described in this position and involves overseeing Smilowitz personnel and participants enrolled in the studies to ensure the collection of high quality samples and data. Samples are processed in the laboratory and sent out for analysis using advanced tools like microbiome sequencing and metabolomics. These efforts are supported by collaborative infrastructure and community outreach that translate research into practice. POSITION INFORMATION
- Salary or Pay Range: $69,600.00 - $124,200.00 /annual
- Salary Frequency: Monthly
- Salary Grade: Grade 21
- UC Job Title: SURVEY RESEARCHER 3
- UC Job Code: 006263
- Number of Positions: 1
- Appointment Type: Staff: Contract
- Percentage of Time: 100% Variable
- Shift (Work Schedule): M-F, 8am-5pm
- Location: Davis, Ca
- Union Representation: 99 - Non-Represented (PPSM)
- Benefits Eligible: Yes
- This position is hybrid (mix of on-site and remote work)
Benefits Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility rules by visiting either our handy Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees and our Benefits Page.
If you are represented by a union, benefits are negotiated between the University of California (UC) and your union and finalized in a contract. Read your bargaining unit's employment contract, stay abreast of current negotiations and learn about collective bargaining at UC: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/labor/bargaining-units/index.html
* High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs * UC pays for Dental and Vision insurance premiums for you and your family * Extensive leave benefits including Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave * Paid Holidays annually as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement * Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement * Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Education Reimbursement Program as stipulated in the UC Davis Health Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreement * Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth * WorkLife and Wellness programs and resources * On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services * Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance and legal coverage * Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSFL) Qualified Employer & Student Loan Repayment Assistance Program for qualified roles * Retirement benefit options for eligible roles including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans. More information on our retirement benefits can be found here Physical Demands
- Standing - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Walking - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Sitting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Lifting/Carrying over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 26-50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling over 50 lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Environmental Demands
- Chemicals, dust, gases, or fumes - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Loud noise levels - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Marked changes in humidity or temperature - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Microwave/Radiation - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Operating motor vehicles and/or equipment - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Extreme Temperatures - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Uneven Surfaces or Elevations - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
Mental Demands
- Sustained attention and concentration - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Complex problem solving/reasoning - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Ability to organize & prioritize - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Numerical skills - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Constant Interaction - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Customer/Patient Contact - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
Work Environment The Smoke and Tobacco Free Environment policy is intended to provide a healthier safer, and more productive work and learning environment for the entire UC Community. The University of California prohibits smoking and tobacco use at all University owned or leased properties, or facilities operated by UC staff or faculty. Smoking and tobacco use are strictly prohibited in indoor and outdoor spaces, parking lots, residential space, and University vehicles. https://ucdasvispolicy.ellucid.com/documents/view/271 Work flexible schedule to accommodate subject enrollment. Special Requirements - Please contact your recruiter with questions regarding which activities apply by position
- This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment
- This is a position with direct access to or responsibility for controlled substances, high risk hazardous chemicals, biological or radioactive/nuclear materials
- Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A Culture of Opportunity and Belonging At UC Davis, we're committed to solving life's most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role-or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
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